SEC Recruiting Class Grades
AI-analyzed recruiting class evaluations with position-by-position breakdowns
Vanderbilt University
Class of 2025 Recruiting Analysis
Position Grades
Strengths
Class depth
Areas to Address
None significant
Full Analysis
Vanderbilt's 2024 recruiting class represents a solid foundation-building effort for the Commodores, though it falls short of the elite SEC standard. With an overall score of 76/100 and no 5-star recruits, this class ranks in the lower tier among SEC programs but shows encouraging signs of depth and strategic positioning. The 15-commit class size is reasonable for Vanderbilt's current rebuild, and the emphasis on 3-star prospects with upside potential aligns with the program's realistic approach to competing in college football's most challenging conference. The headliners of this class are safety Carson Lawrence and linebacker Austin Howard, both 4-star recruits who provide immediate credibility and defensive impact potential. Lawrence's #329 national ranking suggests he could develop into a reliable SEC-caliber safety, while Howard brings much-needed athleticism to the linebacker corps. The addition of quarterback Jack Elliott (#1117 nationally) addresses a critical position need and provides developmental depth, though his ranking indicates he'll likely require significant coaching to reach SEC starting caliber. Wide receiver Kayleb Barnett and cornerback Cayden Daniels round out the notable additions, offering skill position depth that Vanderbilt desperately needs. The primary concern with this class is the lack of elite, game-changing talent that typically defines successful SEC programs. While the class shows good depth across multiple positions, the absence of top-tier recruits and the heavy reliance on 3-star prospects may limit Vanderbilt's ability to compete consistently with SEC East rivals. However, given Vanderbilt's academic standards and recent program struggles, this class represents steady progress and suggests the coaching staff is building a sustainable recruiting foundation rather than chasing immediate but unsustainable splashes.